Assessing Subjective Age and Adjustment to Aging in a Portuguese and German Older Population: A Comparative Multiple Correspondence Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims at examining the contributors to adjustment to aging (AtA) and subjective age (SA)
identified by older adults and to investigate the latent constructs that can work as major determinants in AtA and
SA in an older Portuguese and German population.
Method: Measures were completed, using a variety of appropriate methods, including demographics and
interviews. Complete data were available for 102 older adults aged between 74-100 years (M=81.2; SD = 6.70).
Data was subjected to content analysis. Representation of the associations and latent constructs were analyzed by
a Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA).
Results: Findings showed a model for each nationality. SA and AtA for Portuguese elderly were explained by a
three-factor overall model: “active”, “concentrated” and “attuned”. A three-dimension overall model formed by "harmonized”, “focused” and “young-at-heart” was indicated as a best-fit solution for German elderly.
Conclusion: SAis differently related to AtA in older adults in both samples. The findings presented in this paper
highlighted the under-developed potential of an adjustment and age overall model for this population.